5 Tips from our Teddington Dentists: Proper Oral Hygiene Habits for Children

Helping children develop good oral hygiene habits early sets them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. However, getting kids excited about brushing and flossing can be a challenge. Luckily, there are plenty of creative ways to make dental care fun! Below, our Teddington dentists have shared five effective tips to help your child build strong oral hygiene habits.

Learn more about the children’s dental services we offer

1.Make Toothbrushing Fun with Colourful Toothbrushes and Tasty Toothpaste

Start by letting your child pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste. Choosing a colourful toothbrush with their favourite cartoon character or animal makes brushing more exciting. Pair it with a fun, kid-friendly toothpaste flavour, like bubblegum or strawberry, and your child will look forward to brushing time. The more they enjoy it, the more consistent they'll be!

Parents – when choosing your children’s toothpaste, make sure it contains the appropriate levels of fluoride. For children up to 3 years old, choose a toothpaste that has a fluoride strength of 1000ppm. For children aged 3 years and over, opt for a toothpaste that contains a fluoride strength of 1450ppm. 

2.Turn Brushing into a Song or Dance Routine

Make brushing a two-minute mini dance party! Create a playlist of your child’s favourite songs that are two minutes long and encourage them to brush along to the music. Not only does this help time their brushing properly, but it also adds an element of fun and energy. Alternatively, sing a catchy toothbrushing song together to make the routine memorable and exciting. 

3.Use Brushing and Flossing Apps or Interactive Games

There are many apps and interactive games designed to make oral hygiene more engaging for children. These games often feature characters that guide your child through proper brushing techniques or reward them for completing brushing and flossing routines. Try incorporating one of these apps into their routine to make dental care feel more like playtime. Your local Teddington dentists here at Church Road Dental Care Centre can recommend some excellent options!

4.Create a Reward System for Consistent Brushing

Kids love earning rewards, so create a chart that tracks their brushing and flossing habits. Give them a sticker each time they complete their routine, and offer a small prize when they reach a certain number of stickers. This approach not only makes brushing feel rewarding but also instills the importance of consistency in dental care.

5.Brush Together as a Family

Children often model the behavior of their parents, so make oral hygiene a family activity. Brush and floss together in the morning and evening, showing them that it’s a daily routine for everyone. By brushing alongside them, you’re reinforcing healthy habits while also bonding and having fun together.

By using these 5 tips, you can transform oral hygiene from a chore into an enjoyable daily routine. Teaching children proper dental care can be both fun and rewarding when approached with a little creativity. For more advice on maintaining your child’s oral health, contact us at Church Road Dental Care Centre in Teddington.

Learn more about the children’s dental services we offer